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Care Guide: Oilskin
Swanndri oilskin garments are built to handle harsh conditions and are crafted to ensure many years of solid service. Tough, dependable, and naturally water-resistant, oilskin is designed to be worn hard - but it does require ongoing care and periodic maintenance to perform at its best.
Oilskin should never be washed like a regular garment. Following the correct care steps will protect the fabric, preserve water resistance, and extend the life of your jacket or coat.
Everyday Oilskin Care
For regular maintenance and light soiling, keep it simple:
- Brush off dry dirt and mud
- Sponge clean with a damp cloth
- Use cold water only
- Allow the garment to dry naturally
- Hang on a hanger in the shade until thoroughly dry
- Store separately in a cool, dry place
This routine is usually all that's needed between wears and between reproofing.
Important: What Not to Do
To avoid damaging the oilskin finish, never:
- Machine wash
- Use soap, detergent, or solvent
- Soak or bleach
- Tumble dry
- Iron
- Dry clean
Heat, chemicals, and detergents will strip the oil treatment and reduce the garment's performance.
Reproofing Your Oilskin Jacket
Over time and with regular use, the water-repellent finish on your oilskin may begin to wear. This is normal - and expected - and simply means it's time to reproof the outer layer.
Reproofing restores water resistance and keeps your oilskin performing as it should.
When to Reproof
- Water no longer beads on the surface
- The fabric appears dry or patchy
- The garment feels less weather-resistant than usual
How to Reproof
We recommend following Swanndri's step-by-step reproofing method.
Watch: How to Reproof Your Swanndri Oilskin Jacket
This video covers:
- Preparing the jacket
- Applying oilskin reproofer evenly
- Allowing the garment to cure correctly
Wash Less, Maintain More
Oilskin performs best when it's maintained, not washed. Regular spot cleaning, airing, and timely reproofing will keep your garment weather-ready without unnecessary wear.
With the right care, a Swanndri oilskin jacket isn't just a jacket - it's a long-term companion.
